DES MOINES, Iowa: Ever since longtime U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D) announced that he would not seek re-election in 2014, the names of possible candidates for his seat have swirled in the air. Democrats quickly rallied around U.S. Rep. Bruce Braley for their choice, but the Republican side has been wide open. The list of potentials, however, shrank this week as Iowa Lieutenant GovernorKim Reynolds said she would not be running.

In an email on April 23 Reynolds stated, “after serious and thoughtful discussions with family, friends, supporters and constituents, I have decided to remain as Lieutenant Governor and will not seek a seat in the United States Senate.”[1]

Meanwhile, all eyes continue to watch U.S. Rep. Steve King. Seen by many as a divisive figure, some Republicans, including Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad, have said they would prefer a more electable candidate. Branstad supported U.S. Rep. Tom Latham,[2] but Latham announced in late February that he would not be running.[3]

Yesterday, King said he still does not know if he will run. “I wish I knew the answer. When I make up my mind, when I come to that conclusion, I will be the happiest person in America about that decision whichever way that is,” he stated.[4]